From the outside, chanting mantras doesn’t appear especially magical. Many of those with no experience in mantras wonder how the practice has weathered the test of time.

However, individuals that embrace the practice of reciting mantras can attest to the power of soothing syllables repeated again and again. That’s why this practice has formed the foundation of multiple religions and cultures.

In fact, some mantras can be traced back centuries, and they continue to be passed from teacher to student and parent to child today. 

What is the purpose of mantras? How should they be used? And which are most effective? These are all common questions, and the answers may surprise you.

What Is A Mantra?

There is little debate that meditation creates positive changes in the brain. These can be seen clearly with the use of brain-imaging tools.

In many cases, the same sorts of changes occur during prayer, which affects the brain by releasing the same chemicals and generating the same sort of brain waves as meditation. 

Mantras are syllables, words, or phrases repeated again and again, with the goal of easing the mind, body, and spirit into a meditative state.

They have been proven effective when spoken out loud, as well as through whispers and silent, internal repetition. 

Mantras work, because the brain can only hold one thought at a time. As the mantra is repeated, other thoughts are set aside.

This has a calming influence throughout the nervous system, as the stresses and distractions of daily life are silenced in favor of the single syllable, word, or phrase. Your mind, body, and spirit return to their default state, which is relaxed, unworried, and unhurried.

What Is The Purpose Of A Mantra?

Meditation can be a struggle for those new to the practice. It’s hard to clear your mind and be truly present in the moment.

Mantras can be extremely helpful for those interested in developing their meditation skills, as it offers a soothing method of focusing your attention. 

Of course, beginners aren’t the only ones to benefit from mantras. Many who practice yoga, meditation, and prayer find the mantra that speaks most eloquently to them, and they use it for a lifetime.

Repetition of any syllable, word, or phrase can trigger a relaxation response in the mind and body, allowing you to strengthen your spiritual connection, in whatever way is meaningful to you.

What Is The Most Powerful Mantra?

The question of which mantra is most powerful comes up frequently, but the truth is that no mantra is necessarily more powerful than another.

Response to a specific mantra is extremely individual, and the words and phrases that have meaning for one person may not carry the same weight with another. 

The sound “Om” is commonly suggested for those who have yet to find just the right mantra, because it is one of the simplest. With that said, do not be deceived by its simplicity. Om is an ancient mantra with a long, rich history. It is, in fact, considered to be the sound of creation. 

Om is thought to support the removal of obstacles to spiritual growth, and it is said that Om can rid the spirit of misery.

For generations, teachers have suggested Om as a mantra for its ability to support the development of wisdom and open up possibilities in terms of achieving spiritual goals. 

What Are Some Good Mantras?

While Om is one of the most well-known mantras, it isn’t necessarily the right choice for everyone. The faithful often prefer to recite the Lord’s Prayer or the Hail Mary, which carries special meaning and therefore special power for them. 

Those who practice yoga have likely been introduced to mantras intended for use during focused breathing. These are often phrases from the Sanskrit language, which dates back to India’s earliest civilizations.

The Shanti Mantra is somewhat complex, which is helpful for those that struggle to clear their minds during meditation.

It requires additional focus, which supports the mind in setting aside intrusive and distracting thoughts. The Shanti Mantra is also referred to as the peace mantra for its role in promoting universal peace. 

When written using the English alphabet, the Shanti Mantra is as follows: 

Om Dyau Shanti-Antariksh-Gwam Shantih

Prithvi Shanti-Rapa Shanti-Roshadhayah Shantih

Vanas-Patayah Shanti-Vishwed Devah Shanti-Brahma Shantih

Sarvag-Wam Shantih Shanti-Reva Shantih Sa Ma Shanti-Redhi

Om Shantih Shantih Shantih Om

This translates to: 

May harmony transmit there in the entire sky just as in the tremendous ethereal space all over the place.

May harmony rule all over this world, in water and in all herbs, trees and creepers.

May harmony stream over the entire universe.

May harmony be in the Supreme Being Brahman.

Also, may there consistently exist in all harmony and harmony alone.

Aum harmony, harmony, and harmony to us and all creatures!

Another version of the Shanti Mantra sounds like this: 

Sarvesham Svastir Bhavatu 

Sarvesham Shantir Bhavatu 

Sarvesham Purnam Bhavatu

Sarvesham Mangalam Bhavatu

This translates to: 

May there be well-being for all,

May there be peace for all.

May there be wholeness for all,

May there be happiness for all.

The Gayatri Mantra, which is sometimes referred to as the Sāvitri Mantra, honors Gayatri, the goddess of five elements. In the English alphabet, it is written like this: 

Om Bhur Bhuvah Svah

Tat Savitur Varenyam 

Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi 

Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat

This translates to: 

Earth, Heaven, the Whole Between.

The excellent divine power of the Sun.

May we contemplate the radiance of that god,

May this inspire our understanding.

This mantra is intended to promote reflection of the relationship between all creatures and the unity that brings all of creation together. It is said to be particularly useful for those in search of relief from suffering. 

These are just a few examples of the mantras in use, and there are dozens more of varying levels of complexity. Some prefer to use a particular mantra exclusively.

Others choose to learn a number of mantras, as some seem to provide extra benefits when specific challenges arise. 

If you are in search of a mantra, any sound, word, or phrase that feels right can successfully support your meditation. It isn’t necessarily about what you say, as long as the mantra has meaning to you.

The act of repeating the mantra and focusing your attention on it to the exclusion of all other thoughts is effective in helping you move to a state of calm relaxation and centeredness. 

When is the Best Time to Chant Mantra?

The question of when to chant mantra is also common, as it seems logical that the act of chanting could have a greater effect at certain times of the day. To a point, there is some truth behind this belief.

Many choose to begin their day with mantra and meditation, as this allows them to move through the day in a calm, relaxed frame of mind. Others prefer to end their day with mantra and meditation, as the practice promotes sound sleep. 

Still others are accustomed to using mantra throughout the day, as needed, during times of stress and anxiety.

The act of chanting, whether aloud, whispered, or silent, allows them to refocus their energy.

All of these options have value, and there is no need to limit yourself to just one. You can chant mantra at any time of the day that you need to clear your mind. This consistent reinforcement of the mind, body, spirit connection offers benefits regardless of when you practice.